The first time I heard this song about a year ago, I loved it.   I'm always on the look-out for good music, but since I'm ward choir director right now, I'm especially compulsive about it.  This year, I'm using a Christmas program that I put together back in 2007 for another ward choir.  But I'll be doing a new one next year, and this song will definitely be among the chosen ones.

Alright, here's what I recommend.  Take a couple of minutes- Open the link in a new window, then read the text while you listen.  And then you can  listen to it a few more times while you're doing the dishes or folding laundry or something.  It's a beautiful message and the music is so moving! oh, I love it.  A great way to remember the reason for the season! Enjoy!

http://www.danforrest.com/wp-content/uploads/2007/04/18-carol-of-joy.mp3

Carol Of Joy

Green leaves all fallen, withered and dry;
Brief sunset fading, dim winter sky.
Lengthening shadows,
Dark closing in...

Then, through the stillness, carols begin!

Oh fallen world, to you is the song--
Death holds you fast and night tarries long.

Jesus is born, your curse to destroy!
Sweet to your ears, a carol of Joy!

Pale moon ascending, solemn and slow;
Cold barren hillside, shrouded in snow;
Deep, empty valley veiled by the night;
Hear angel music--hopeful and bright!

Oh fearful world, to you is the song--
Peace with your God, and pardon for wrong!
Tidings for sinners, burdened and bound--

A carol of joy!

A Saviour is found!

Earth wrapped in sorrow, lift up your eyes!
Thrill to the chorus filling the skies!
Look up sad hearted--witness God's love!
Join in the carol swelling above!

Oh friendless world, to you is the song!
All Heaven's joy to you may belong!
You who are lonely, laden, forlorn--
Oh fallen world!
Oh friendless world!

To you,

A Saviour is born!